Attraction: Lost Canyon Trail

This route leads one mile southward from Squaw Canyon then turns northeastward to follow Lost Canyon. It terminates three and a half miles from Squaw Canyon Trail at the Peekaboo Trail.

This route leads from Squaw Canyon Trail southward over a slickrock pass then descends into the Lost Canyon drainage. The track connects Squaw Canyon Trail with Peekaboo Trail. It can be used in conjunction with these two trails to form a nine mile loop. There are five backcountry campsite along this loop. A permit is required for any overnight stay within the park backcountry.

Begin this hike by walking southward from the Squaw Flat Loop A Trailhead. Follow the trail a short distance to a fork and bear left, following Squaw Canyon Trail. One mile from the trailhead you'll reach a trail junction. The Peekaboo Trail leads eastward from this fork. This is the beginning and end of a short loop through the area. Either side of this fork will lead you to the well marked Lost Canyon Trail. I'll describe the loop as it leads counter clockwise.

Bear right at this junction and enter Squaw Canyon. The drainage leads southward on the western bank of the stream, which is usually dry. During the next one and a half miles the track winds its way through the canyon and ascends 160 feet to meet the Lost Canyon Trail. A backcountry campsite has been established at this junction. To reach Lost Canyon follow the trail to the left.

The Lost Canyon Trail ascends 320 feet out of Squaw Canyon to the eastern end of a slickrock ridge. From this high point, 5,540 feet, the trail turns northeastward and descends into Lost Canyon. The track reaches backcountry campsite LC3 shortly after reaching the floor of Lost Canyon.

The trail winds along the western side of the canyon for the next two miles. It often climbs above the drainage along the slickrock walls. Campsites LC2 and LC1 lie along this stretch of the trail before it reaches Peekaboo Trail.

Directions: From Needles Visitor Center, Drive westward along the main park road. Turn left before the campground to reach Squaw Flat Loop A Trailhead. Follow Squaw Canyon Trail 2.8 miles southward to the western terminus of Lost Canyon Trail. To reach the eastern terminus of the trail turn left onto Peekaboo Trail 1.1 miles from the trailhead and hike eastward 1.5 miles to Lost Canyon Trail.